By: Firoz Khan and Jugal Jaiswal
Copolymers, composed of two or more distinct monomers, have seen tremendous growth due to their adaptability in creating materials with enhanced properties for diverse applications. Recent advances in synthesis techniques, such as controlled radical polymerization (CRP), ring-opening polymerization (ROP), and living polymerization have enabled precise control over copolymer architectures, offering tailored properties, such as improved thermal stability, flexibility, and biodegradability. These advancements have had a transformative impact across various industrial sectors, including packaging, electronics, biomedical engineering, and environmental technologies. For instance, copolymers with amphiphilic properties are now crucial in drug delivery systems, while conductive copolymers are enabling flexible, lightweight electronics. Moreover, the development of biodegradable and biobased copolymers is addressing environmental concerns, promoting sustainable alternatives to traditional polymers. Additionally, the use of copolymers in nanotechnology has led to breakthroughs in the development of smart materials for sensors, actuators, and adaptive systems. Despite these successes, challenges remain in scaling up copolymer production while maintaining sustainability. The need for eco-friendly and cost-effective production methods is driving research toward greener synthesis routes, such as using renewable feedstocks and minimizing hazardous byproducts. Moreover, there is an increasing focus on creating multifunctional copolymers capable of fulfilling the rising need for advanced materials in emerging technologies. This review explores the recent advancements in copolymer synthesis methods, their current and potential industrial applications, and the challenges that need to be addressed to ensure the continued progress of this versatile class of materials. As the field advances, copolymers are poised to play a critical role in shaping future technologies, offering solutions that are not only highly functional but also environmentally sustainable.
Keywords: Copolymers, controlled radical polymerization (CRP), atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP), reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT), nitroxide mediated polymerization (NMP)
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